Mamelodi Sundowns
By Sello Masilo
South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns will clash with Egypt’s Pyramids FC in the 2024/25 CAF Champions League Final. The two-legged decider is set for 24 May in Pretoria and 1 June in Cairo, marking a historic first final appearance for Pyramids FC and a return to the summit for Sundowns since their 2016 triumph. 
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Sundowns Edge Al Ahly in Dramatic Semi-Final
Mamelodi Sundowns secured their place in the final after a tense 1-1 draw against defending champions Al Ahly in Cairo. Following a goalless first leg in Pretoria, Al Ahly took the lead through Taher Mohamed’s powerful strike in the 24th minute. However, Sundowns’ persistence paid off in stoppage time when a low cross led to an own goal by Al Ahly defender Yasser Ibrahim, sending the South African side through on the away goals rule. 
This victory marks Sundowns’ third appearance in the CAF Champions League final, having previously reached the pinnacle in 2001 and clinched the title in 2016.
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Pyramids FC Make History with First Final Appearance
Pyramids FC achieved a historic milestone by reaching their first-ever CAF Champions League final. In a thrilling semi-final against South Africa’s Orlando Pirates, Pyramids emerged victorious with a 3-2 win in Cairo. Despite trailing twice, goals from Mostafa Fathy, Ramadan Sobhi, and a decisive brace from Congolese striker Fiston Mayele secured their spot in the final.   
This achievement underscores Pyramids FC’s rapid ascent in African football, having been established only in 2008.
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Final Showdown: Dates and Venues
• First Leg: 24 May 2025 at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria, South Africa
• Second Leg: 1 June 2025 at 30 June Stadium, Cairo, Egypt  
The final will be contested over two legs, with the aggregate score determining the champion. If the aggregate score is level, the away goals rule will apply. Should the teams remain tied, a penalty shootout will decide the winner, as no extra time will be played.  
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Road to the Final
Mamelodi Sundowns:
• Group Stage: Finished as runners-up in Group B, behind AS FAR.
• Quarter-Finals: Defeated Espérance de Tunis 1-0 on aggregate.
• Semi-Finals: Drew 1-1 with Al Ahly, advanced on away goals.  
Pyramids FC:
• Group Stage: Secured second place in Group D, behind Espérance de Tunis.
• Quarter-Finals: Overcame AS FAR with a 4-3 aggregate score.
• Semi-Finals: Triumphed over Orlando Pirates 3-2 in a single-leg match.  
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Anticipated Clash of Styles
The final promises a captivating contest between Sundowns’ disciplined, possession-based approach and Pyramids FC’s dynamic attacking flair. Sundowns’ experience in continental competitions could provide an edge, while Pyramids’ momentum and hunger for a maiden title add an unpredictable element to the encounter. 
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Significance for African Football
This final represents a significant moment for African club football, highlighting the growing competitiveness and diversity within the continent’s premier tournament. For South Africa, Sundowns’ presence in the final reinforces the nation’s strong footballing pedigree. For Egypt, Pyramids FC’s rise challenges the traditional dominance of clubs like Al Ahly and Zamalek, signaling a shift in the footballing landscape.  
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